South Crofty Collection
The South Crofty Collection began life 15 years ago when both Wheal Jane and South Crofty Mines were still operational. With both mines in full production and a large workforce employed for a period of time at least, the industry which had most shaped Cornwall was flourishing. However, with the material being produced only partly processed in Cornwall and the tin recovered at smelting plants overseas, actually obtaining a piece of Cornish tin was nigh on impossible.
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After some work in the Company's laboratories it was established that the tin concentrate could be smelted on site on a small scale to provide the raw Cornish tin. In conjunction with local craftsmen who, in turn, developed the special skills necessary to cast pure tin, the basis was laid for the production of items of jewellery and giftware for the first time in pure Cornish tin. |
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| The collection began with just two designs, an ingot and a Celtic cross and the project was an instant success. Over the intervening years the range has grown to over 150 items of primarily jewellery but more latterly, items of giftware also. The processes of smelting and production have been continuously refined and enabled the production of ever more interesting and intricate designs. |
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When the Wheal Jane Group was formed in 1999 following the closure of South Crofty, the South Crofty Collection was able to continue as part of the Wheal Jane Group using tin concentrate which had been set aside just prior to the closure of the mine. This material has been stored and is smelted in small batches to meet the ongoing needs of the South Crofty Collection project. Obviously this means there is a limited supply of raw material unless production recommences at South Crofty at some time in the future.
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Over the years the collection has undertaken an increasing number of unique special commissions from one-off presentation pieces to special coins and corporate gifts such as cufflinks and tiepins featuring company logos and insignia.
The South Crofty Collection is now an established stock item for a number of retail outlets mainly in Cornwall and Devon such as gift shops, hotels etc. In more recent years increasing levels of sales have been achieved through the Collection's website which has a full on-line shopping facilities and has provided sales from around the world including the many ex-patriat Cornish communities associated with the migration of Cornish miners and their families around 150 years ago. |
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